Zizyphus obtusifolia Graythorn
SHRUB or SMALL TREE.  A dense, substantial tangle of thorny greenish-gray branches.  Small oval leaves appear in spring and after summer rains, but quickly fall off as the soil dries out. Usually has several long, thin trunks, and may become a small tree in favorable locations.  Clusters of tiny greenish flowers are followed by round blue berries.  Burns easily in wildfires (dead branches are hollow), but readily sprouts back from the roots, even without rain.  Valuable food and cover for wildlife.  Common throughout the Empires.
FAMILY:  Rhamnaceae (Buckthorn Family)